19th Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron

19th Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron
19th Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron Emblem
Active	1942–1970
Country	United States
Branch	United States Air Force

The 19th Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron (1942–1970) is an inactive United States Air Force unit. During World War II and the Cold War; its primary mission was aerial reconnaissance and photo mapping, it subsequently carried out electronic warfare missions during the Vietnam War.

The 19th Photographic Mapping Squadron was activated at Colorado Springs AAF on July 14, 1942, as part of the 4th Reconnaissance Group. It was equipped with F-4 Lightnings (P-38Es), the group trained for overseas duty.

Reassigned to the 1st Photographic Group, the squadron transferred to Bradley Field, Connecticut. It deployed to Mexico to perform photographic mapping over Central and South America with long range F-9 and F-7 (B-17F/B-24D) aircraft. It also performed photographic mapping of the United States while assigned to the 11th Photographic Group.

Reassigned to the 311th Reconnaissance Wing, the squadron moved overseas, being attached to the Royal Air Force. It was first deployed to Africa, the squadron photographed airfields and created maps of western and central Africa in support of Air Transport Command, developing logistical supply routes across the dark continent. It was later assigned to Egypt, mapping the Middle East with long-range aircraft including some Navy PBY-5s (OA-10)s, photographing airfields, coastal defenses and ports.